March 2025

Dozens of women who participate in Osborne’s Women With a Plan program gathered earlier this month for an annual empowerment event called “Phenomenal Women.” Many wore purple, symbolizing power and gender equality, and all received a single rose bloom as they entered the room. A series of dynamic speakers encouraged them to thank themselves, count themselves in, and invite others to the table before sharing a meal together. 

The community activist and celebrity chef known as Chef Cream spoke movingly about making the decision to carry her head high and pursue her ambitions without needing anyone’s permission. Motivational speaker and founder of Activate Your Life Lucinda Cross recognized the women for the many hats they wear and tied their personal strengths to Osborne’s core values, including being unstoppable and honoring everyone’s capacity to change. And surveying the room, Rev. Kristin Miles of Trinity Church reminded the group that community is the oldest form of healing.

Women With a Plan addresses the impact of our prison system on women with incarceration histories or loved ones who are currently incarcerated. Our dedicated team provides case management and support for reintegration back into the workforce and reaching educational and career goals. We provide these services so women can experience the power of community and, as staffer Maya O’Riordan put it, “step into their full potential.”